Chorioamnionitis

Intra-amniotic infection (formerly called chorioamnionitis) is infection of the chorion, amnion, amniotic fluid, placenta, or a combination. Infection increases risk of obstetric complications and problems in the fetus and neonate. Symptoms include fever, uterine tenderness, foul-smelling vaginal discharge, and maternal and fetal tachycardia. Diagnosis is by specific clinical criteria or, for subclinical infection, analysis of amniotic fluid. Treatment includes broad-spectrum antibiotics and delivery.